Preah Chatomukh

Also recorded as Chaktomuk Temple/Prasat Chatumuk (Khmer: ប្រាសាទចតុមុខ), the site was cleared by Henri Mauger in 1939 revealing the base and ruins of the massive four-sided Buddha statue. At the time, “a number” of small sculptures were found by its base, two of which were recorded as being lodged with the Albert Sarraut Museum (PP National Museum). An inscription (on one of the small sculptures) was recorded and registered under K. 888

The site underwent research in 2015 revealing the moat that surrounded the once towering site and a causeway that led to a terrace and the baray (reservoir). The site was later restored in 2018.

The four sides represent the four brahmaviharas (Khmer: ព្រហ្មវិហារ), or Buddhist virtues and meditative practices being Upekkha – equanimity, Metta – loving kindness, Karuna – compassion, and Mudita – empathetic joy. Tricycle has an easy-to-digest overview in English if you’d like to know more about the Buddha’s teachings on this topic or watch a Khmer/English video from monk Hak Sienghai.

Photos from 12/21 visit

Updated Photos from a visit in Dec 2022

Rodney Charles LHuillier

Living in Asia for over a decade and now residing in beautiful Siem Reap - Contact via [email protected] - more..